Domestic Violence Crisis Center Voices of Courage Spring Luncheon

Actress Meredith Baxter, who played iconic TV mom Elyse Keaton on the show Family Ties among her many other roles over a span of 40 years, will be the key speaker at the Domestic Violence Crisis Center’s 10th annual Voices of Courage Spring Luncheon on May 3.

 In Baxter’s famous role as wife and mother, her family was one of the happiest, healthiest families on television. Off screen, the actress’s life was another story, as she struggled to overcome an abusive marriage, low self-esteem and, eventually, alcohol addiction. Untied, her recently published memoir, chronicles Baxter’s journey to confront her demons and to extricate herself from her volatile 15-year marriage to David Birney.

 “We are thrilled to have Meredith Baxter as our speaker this year,” said Peggy Brown, Co-Chair of the luncheon. “Her frankness about the obstacles she has had to overcome and her reputation as a beloved actress and an engaging speaker ensure that our 10th anniversary luncheon will be very special indeed.”

The luncheon attracts between 400 and 500 attendees who support the services the agency provides to victims of domestic violence. As the major fundraising event for the DVCC, it affords significant financial support for critically needed agency programs. Co-Chairs Peggy Brown of Darien and Denise Mangano of Stamford and a committee of 10 area residents are organizing the event, which will be held at the Stamford Marriott Hotel. The luncheon will also feature a raffle of many exciting items generously donated by local merchants. Included among the prizes are a Fendi handbag, jewelry, restaurant outings and tickets to sporting and other events.

 Money raised at the event will help DVCC continue its mission to promote the fundamental right of all individuals to be safe in their personal relationships. The agency offers confidential services at no charge, including court and legal services, group and individual counseling, temporary shelter, housing services, children’s services, medical advocacy,  multilingual services, the PeaceWorks prevention education project, community education, a 24-hour hotline (1-888-774-2900) and EsperanzaCT, a Spanish language website and 24-hour service line. DVCC is the only domestic violence agency serving the communities of Stamford, Norwalk, Westport, Darien, New Canaan, Wilton and Weston.

 In fiscal year 2010 – 2011, DVCC provided shelter and counseling services to 3,860 unduplicated victims of domestic violence, and PeaceWorks provided awareness programs to 21,771 students and conducted workshops, trainings and awareness events for 3,098 adults. For more information please call 203-588-9100 or visit our website at www.dvccct.org.

 For tickets and sponsorship opportunities for the luncheon, call (203) 588-9100 or email SpringLuncheon@dvccct.org. Individual tickets are $115, and there are many opportunities for sponsorship at various levels.